2014: The Modern World (IC)

by **The New Greek Republic** » Wed Mar 12, 2014 4:57 pm

Moscow, United Soviet Republic
January 1st, 2014

The sun shined over the Capitol of Moscow, illuminating the city with a beautiful glow that would strike even the most dispassionate of scholars with awe. This was the beautiful Capitol of the United Soviet Republic, the remnants of a war-torn Soviet Union that has made great strides to keep the USR functioning, and cooperating under one government. The USR's Premier Soviet, Vladymir Maraschov was proud to be the leader of such a bold nation. After all, this was the son of a superpower.

Vladymir awoke from his slumber peacefully, gently rising his eyelids, and stretching his body out before rising out of bed and moving the curtains to side to reveal the beautifully illuminated city. He dressed himself appropiately for his occupation, and began his day. However, this day was no ordinary day. Today is the 17th anniversary of the United Soviet Republic Declaration of Continuity, or the celebration of the formation of the USR. With the celebration, a speech is given to the public by the Premier Soviet each year on the matter of importance across the nation. This year would be the first that the speech would be given from his office, and be broadcasted across the nation for all to hear.

Vladymir sat in his desk and organized the papers on them. He looked at the cameraman and said "Ready when you are." taking a deep breath and stared into the camera.

Laides and gentlemen of the United Soviet Republic, today we celebrate the birth of our great country, today we celebrate our individuality of the our Soviet Republic. Today, let us honor our Republic. United as one. For the success of the fellow Soviet. In my speech today, I shall adress the matter of importance in the USR.

The United Soviet Republic is facing a serious level of failure if we don't gain allies and open new relations with foreign nation who we've never encountered in our history. I will be sending invitations to several nations to join a summit in Moscow to open a free trade agreement, develop new diplomatic relations and hopefully find new allies in the process.

The United Soviet Republic must put this foreign policy change into effect to pprosper in this new generation. This is a generation of diplomacy, and political strategizing so that is how we must modernize our country. Diplomacy and good political strategy. This will be done not for the continuation of the USR, nor the continuation of the Soviet lifestyle but for the common worker and for a whole new world of benefits come to him. Thank you, and good day to you all.

The camera stopped rolling and he shooed the camera crew away, as he began to contemplate who to invite to the Moscow Summit, he was immediately considering China, the Confederate States of America, and the Worker's Commonwealth. He was also considering inviting New Catalonia, and Canada. However, he would need more time to think and consider the different choices.

by **Toradora** » Wed Mar 12, 2014 6:14 pm

San Diego, New Catalonia
January 1st, 2014

The room went dead silent for almost ten full seconds, and the assembled members of the New Catalonian Politburo looked at each other uneasily, waiting for General Secretary Delgado to respond to the Interior Minister's keynote slide concerning the escalating crisis in the Gulf of Mexica. He frowned, and rubbed his jaw while absorbing what he just saw: a band of Gold Coast and Carribean bandits..nay, pirates were terrorizing several offshore oil platforms - taking advantage of the transition period from state owned to private investment owned property. They had raided and stolen several million barrels of crude in total already, and were steaming eastward to unload it on the African black market; a conduit to Eurasia proper.

"Welp, that fucking blows." he finally said. "I take it we have no bites yet on the RFPs for a guided missile cruiser? Someone's gotta have a mothballed Slava or Ticonderoga or something they don't need anymore? How the hell are we going to work up to an effective blue-water navy one day if we don't have anything larger than a destroyer?"

The Minister of Defense took the bait: "General Secretary - we have only recently finished the equipment and training modernization program of the army. You yourself, having served in the Intelligence Corps know that we are effectively land-based - and oriented purely defensively. The air defense and naval expansion plan is prudent...but conservative; and we can't rush the sellers. We've put out feelers that we're entertaining offers, but these things take time..."

Sensing an opportunity, the Minister of State jumped in. "Sir, the Soviets are reaching out to others and attempting to rebuild a sphere of influence - perhaps we can buy equipment from them? There are also our neighbors in the Continental Americas; but relations, as you know, sir - are in a state of flux..."

At that, Delgado responded - "Look, the people pay us to guard their livelihoods, to lead, and most of all; to keep their houses cooled with cheap power. Send out the goddamn communiques; and tell them we're in a buying mood. And find out what the hell our neighbors have been up to! Reach out to our Koryomanju - the Americans, Canadians, Germans, SOMEONE. We -have- to stop those pirates. Let's be about it!"

And with that, he knocked on the large mahogany table once with the knuckles on his left hand, and left the room without saying another word.

by **Reddogkeno101** » Wed Mar 12, 2014 7:17 pm

Canberra, Australia
The sun rose on Lake Burley Griffin and Canberra on a beautiful Winter Canberra Morning. Cold as it may have been compared to other places, it was crisply cold. This morning, a cabinet meeting would be taking place at Parliament House and the Cabinet would be deciding whether or not to establish diplomatic relations with several nations. These nations were the USR, New Catalonia and Workers Commonwealth of Brittania. Cabinet approved the first and last, but believed that New Catalonia could be left out. At the same time, cabinet sent messages to other western nations like France and China assuring them that they were trying to ease regional tensions. Parliament unanimously passed the bill and swiftly, messages were sent to USR and Brittania informing them of the decision.

To: Brittania
From: Australia

This message is being sent to inform you that we have recognised your government's rule over Brittania and that Australia wishes to establish embassies within your nation and that you are free to establish one in Brisbane. We hope that our relations can prosper and nations from that relationship too.

To: USR
From: Australia

This message is being sent to inform you that we have recognised your government's rule over the former Russian territories and that Australia wishes to establish embassies within your nation and that you are free to establish one in Canberra. We hope that our nations and people can prosper from this relationship in time.

by **Jade Confederacy** » Wed Mar 12, 2014 7:55 pm

Philadelphia, AU
President Clinton’s fingers brushed the smooth rosewood desk as he gazed around his new office in Capitol Square. The desk was one of the few artifacts recovered from the old capital of Washington D.C. before the Confederates broke through and sacked the city during the First War of Secession. Those days were dark times indeed. America’s dream of a prosperous and united future had burned along with that city, leaving only a sense of bitterness and betrayal. Even after a century and a half of healing and regrowth, those sentiments have not completely disappeared. Every couple of decades or so, the American Union, the rightful successor state of the old USA, tried to reignite that old dream and gather its estranged sibling, the CSA and Catalonia, back into the house of America with force or any other means.

It had high hopes during the first and second world wars, when Germany, one of its closest allies in Europe took the banner of rebellion against the world order established by the old powers of Britain and France. Those hopes were put to the torch along with the cities of the other Axis powers when the Allied war machine proved too much. Looking back, President Richard’s decision to keep the AU out of the wars had been a wise one even though it branded him a coward and cost him his reelection.

Many in the government had called for America to take up arms and forcefully reincorporate the CSA and Catalonia back into the Union and give Canada a good beating while it’s at it. Those voices still persist in the Congress, especially among the war hawks in the Progressive Party. Thankfully though, the people of the AU chose peace and stability over ambition and revenge when they chose President Clinton of the Socialists as their next leader.

President Clinton liked to think himself a reasonable man and knew that the path to reunification cannot be through the barrel of a gun, even if it faster and more satisfying to do so. However, diplomatic efforts to reunify America would be also exceedingly hard. After all, how can the governments talk of reunification if the AU denied their basic existence? The AU still claims all the territory lost during the Wars of Secession and does not even maintain a formal embassy in the CSA, its historical nemesis. Too begin the way of regional reconciliation President Clinton had to first get rid of the century long bad blood that lay between the AU and its neighbors.

As he gazed though the windows of Presidential Palace, towards the looming Congressional building that dominated the square, he gave out a long sigh. The Congress will no doubt fight him along every step. He would have a lot of work to do.

Official Commune of the American Union

To: The distinguished Primer of Canada, Carl B. Sawyer

We, the government of the American Union, would wish to convene with the representatives of your government in Ottawa to discuss the ongoing territorial dispute between our two nations. New England has long been a thorn in the bilateral relations of our governments and we would wish to put an end to this issue so that we can finally normalize relations. For the stability and prosperity of the region, we must settle our differences and move on.

-President Hughes Clinton, 23rd President of the American Union

Jungles of Costa Rica
A big blue eye stared at the endless expense that is the Costa Rican jungle, a sea of emerald that stretched from one end of the tin pot republic to the other. The eye belonged to a MQ-1 Predator drone operated by the American Union, a marvelous piece of technology that is proving popular with the AU government. As the name entails, it was on a hunt. The preys were Central American drug cartels that have grown in power exponentially in recent time. They smuggled narcotics from the hills of Colombia and Peru though Mexicana and into the CSA where they were sold for money and weapons. A large portion of those narcotics eventually passed from the CSA into the AU though the Mississippi and the West Coast and then the remaining would be sold in Canada.

Narcotics were a major problem for the region and shave a good quarter of a percent growth from regional growth annually. The stability and economically minded AU was having none of this. It deployed drones and special forces into chock points such as Costa Rica, where they will conduct covert operations to cut off the drugs before they ever makes it pass the Rio Grande river. The Costa Rican government protests of course, but the AU government turned a deft ear, calming that they were just puppets bought or bullied by the cartels, which is mostly true.

The eye turret of the drone swerved as its heat sensing monitors picked a large convoy tracking though the jungle. The region was off limits to the public so anyone caught would be assumed to be cartel members and thus guilty. The drone circle the convoy for several more minutes to confirm the target then dropped a laser guided missile right on top of the group. It then strafed the area with its 12 mm machine gun just in case. It could have just killed several dozen innocent people or a very large pack of deer for that matter, but its programming did not care. To it and its operators, it had just eliminated a convoy of drug mules carrying cocaine or heroin into North America. To it and its operators, justice was upheld and there was one less problem for the AU.

A drone hover across the jungles of Central America, devoid of any insignia connecting it to its operator. The AU officially denies any involvement in the Central American war on drugs

by **Bolovia** » Wed Mar 12, 2014 8:50 pm

National Presidency, Richmond,VA
President Richards sighed staring down at the papers on his desk. He knew that his term was almost coming to an end and that his final year in power was critical. He signed the papers on his desk, stood up, and walked over to his mini bar. He poured himself a bourbon and gulped it down. He returned to his desk and pulled another file from his desk. This regarded international affairs mainly the AU's hostile attitude towards the CSA.
" These guys just don't know when to quit and move on. Bastards! They think reunification is possible." He chuckled a bit and then sighed once more. " I'll have to assemble the War Room and my Cabinet, I'll be damned if these fools try anything stupid." He overlooked the usual reports, sights of AU troops along CSA borders,skirmishes, violation of airspace. Richards was ready for anything but he worried about the geo-political situation on the continent a war of such caliber would throw everything off balance. Looking at these reports drove him to drink again. He crumbled up the paper and moved onto the next. The next paper was about The Caliphate. Confederate oil companies struck a massive natural gas reserve in Qatar but the Arabian army have been harassing the drilling engineers. Richards sensed another conflict brewing, he was ready to dispatch the 7th fleet that was stationed in Kuwait. He needed to urge Congress to ready 225,000 troops just in case that a 2nd Arabian war would erupt.With the AU barking about the "Grand Reunification" and The Caliphate stirring trouble Richards had alot on his plate for his final year. He prepared his speech for Congress, staying up all night revising and editing. He went through 20 rough-drafts until he finally found the speech he felt was most convincing.
Richards finally went on to domestic issues. The student protests have gotten a bit tense in New Orleans. A clash between Riot control and college students in the French Quarters broke out. He feared that he will have to send in the Confederate Security forces which he did not want to do knowing that the Security Forces pride themselves off their brutality. He knew that his Academic Rollback Act although saving billions it pulled the plug on thousands of enrolled students and anted up the tuition fee. Richards needed that meeting with his Chief of Staff and his Cabinet really badly. The issues began mounting and tension arisen externally and domestically. He assembled his Cabinet for a meeting tomorrow for now he loosened his tie and packed up all his paperwork. He walked down the hall towards the parking lot. On the way down he ran into his Secretary of Defense John Reynolds.
" Hey John." Richards said tiresome but with a vague eagerness.
" Oh, Mr.President. How are you? Whats keeping you up so late?"
" Well, John the domestic scene doesnt seem to pretty. The protests are becoming more violent, those kids are really fired up. Not to mention the AU is becoming a giant nuisance."
" I understand Mr. President. I always and will continue to recommend we send in the Security Forces and let them have their fun. Worked in the past, anyways ya were assembling a pretty sizeable border force to send up north towards the AU. I received that memo you sent the Cabinet meeting early in the morning, i'll brief you on the situation then. I'm sure your options will become more clear especially on how to respond to The Caliphate crisis. I wont keep you up any longer Mr.President goodnight."
"Goodnight John." The two parted each heading towards their own cars. Richards felt that he had a big day tomorrow and was ready to tackle the day.

by **The Miaphysite Church of Coptic Archism** » Thu Mar 13, 2014 3:08 am

10 Downing Street, London, Worker's Commonwealth of Britannia

General Secretary Andrew Fleming sat patiently as the Circle filed into the room. When all were seated and ready, he smiled and said "Comrades, the past days have been big for the Commonwealth. It looks like the Soviets are looking to respark old friendships, and Canberra has finally cracked after seventy two years and recognized the British Workers' Party government over Britannia. Charles," Andrew addressed the External Director by first name, they were all comrades here. The thin, charismatic man looked up from his notes, and Andrew continued, "What is your take?" Charles smiled and said "Well, Andrew, I think it's too early to be expecting much, but both are significant thaws in our external relations. Ever since the Soviet reforms, the Commonwealth has, as I'm sure you've all noticed, been devoid of friends."

The Circle nodded, and Charles continued. "I think we should most definitely be attending the Soviet's meeting, and a polite response to the Australians is in order as well. Other than that, I have no more recommendations at the current time." Andrew nodded and said "Thank you, Charles." He then turned back to address the room, and said "Now comrades, I've heard some talk lately about overhauls on several sectors, what's the situation on this?" Harold, the Economic Director, cleared his throat to direct attention to him, before responding "I have been cooperating with Comrade William and Comrade Arthur," Motioning to the Transportation and Education Directors respectively, "On a significant overhaul. The main basis of the plan includes a new nation-wide bullet train line with civilian and freight transport capabilities, a new set of subsidies in nuclear power, computing and space technology to keep the Commonwealth at the forefront of technology and as a boon to our economy, and finally a total overhaul of our education system, which is, in comparison to some models, horribly insufficient."

Andrew nodded carefully. "You seem to have all thought this through, but where will the budget come from?" Harold then turned to Colin, Director of the Armed Forces. Colin, seeing he was expected to speak, replied with "New Catalonia has been poking it's nose into purchasing a set of guided missile cruisers. We have three 2nd batch Leander Class Cruisers that were mothballed when we replaced them with Type 45 Darings. I'd recommend selling them off to the New Catalonians. It should provide the funding we need for the rail line. The subsidization will pay for themselves, something Comrade Harold could explain in more detail. The education reform, we need to worry less about cost and more about what we're doing." Andrew nodded once again, thinking it all over in his head.

Charles quickly noted while Andrew was thinking "The New Catalonians share many of our ideological views. While this isn't the 60's, they're a potential ally and the trade could get our foot in the door. It will pay off to have friends, Comrade." Andrew seemed to make up his mind, and he looked around the room before saying "Ok, you all have my go ahead, have the exact details for the Workers' Council gathering at the end of the week, I'll see it passed through immediately." The Circle nodded collectively. Andrew then asked "Is there any more business?" When no response came, he said "Then this Circle meeting is adjourned, thank you all for attending, Comrades."

by **Bolovia** » Thu Mar 13, 2014 8:15 pm

United Wing, Congressional Building, Richmond,VA
8:37 PM

Senator Watley, a member of the Progressive party, continued his fiery speech;
"... therefore we must act now to preserve this Confederation. Those dogs in Philadelphia only look to step on our necks, deprive us of enjoying sovereignty and true freedom. I push for the military to send not just a border force but place an entire army along our borders with the American Union. National security, no... National Sovereignty! should be our top priority. President Richards has done everything in his power to keep those fools in Philadelphia at bay, and it is the duty of the Congress to back his every decision."
A massive applause erupted, all Progressive members and some populist members stood applauding at Senators Watleys speech. However, admist the cheers Assemblyman Martins, a Populist member, stood up in dismay. He cleared his throat loudly to notify the Congress he was about to speak.
" Ladies and Gentlemen, the Richards administration concerns itself with the State of Arabia, an enemy thousands of miles away. Why attack an enemy thousands of miles away when we have one only 100 miles away?"
Some Congressman murmured "Ya!" in agreement with Martins.
Martins continued," The Richards administration is approaching our foreign policy in the wrong manner, we are paying to much attention to The Caliphate wasting resources and young men when they should be put towards a real threat like the American Union. Those Unionist pigs are looking for a perfect moment to strike us and if they see we are sending hundreds of thousands of soldiers to Arabia they will know that our homefront is vulnerable. I ask Richards that he and his administration carefully consider who our real foes are. Who knows maybe the AU orchestrated the 2008 terror attack on our International Financial Tower? God Bless their souls."
The Congress became rowded up, remembering that dark day. Martins sat down with his chin held high he was arrogant. Progressive member Senator Johnson stood up, some clapped for his bold stance.
" Mr.Martins if the AU were somewhat responsible for the attack then why would they be the first ones to send an abundance of humanitarian aid, why would they be the first nation to give their deepest condolences? Why would they attack their brothers and sisters?!" Senator Johnson looked around at other Progressive members clapping.
" As much as they are our rivals, they still are our brothers. We may not see eye to eye but Goddamn it I still care what happens to our brothers and sisters in the AU! They are our kin waiting to be reunited with the Confederacy and by God we so shall liberate them. I am all for the Department of War and Defense sending an army towards the Unions borders but I say we shouldn't make it to seem that we are provoking, no. Of course our strategy is to make them make the first move but not by providing military pressure. We should do so through diplomatic means. The Americas summit is being hosted in Miami, this will be the precise opportunity to confront the AU one on one with the other American nations viewing. In the meantime we should keep on alert and putting a border force near the Union states will keep the tension high."
Silence shadowed the Congress as those powerful words sinked in. Richards sat quietly; he observed the Congressman bickering at eachother. He patiently waited for the precise moment to go up on the podium to give his what seemed like two cents on the matter and what he intended to be the course of action. He looked at his watch, 9:11 He looked up to see Assemblyman Martinez speaking,
"... we have to think about the security of our people. As a proud member of the Populist party we can only think of the people. The AU threaten the security of the Confederacy and all those who pledge allegiance to the country, but war shouldn't be the answer. By sending an army towards the north, the Union might view this as an aggressive act and will respond with equal if not greater force. Diplomacy, diplomacy, diplomacy. Those are the guidelines we should follow, to tell the international community that we are a reasonable nation, that we are level headed people. As stated by Senator Johnson before the Americas summit is coming up and WE! of all nations have the privilege of hosting in my home state of Miami. This should be the opportunity to talk to the AU instead of mock and intimidate them. We need to follow respect and courtesy rather than actions and principles." An applause rang from the Populist party, Progressive party members nodded in disagreement and occasional boo's came here and there. The Secretary General came to the podium to quiet things down before announcing,
" Ladies and Gentlemen, please welcome President John Richards."
A massive applause rang out and almost the entire Congress stood up and applauded. Richards waved as he made his way to the podium, Presidential Guard standing at attention near the podium gave him a salute before dispersing. Richards walked up to the podium, the sound of cameras taking pictures and the massive applause overcame him with joy. He adjusted his red tie before looking up at the entire Congress.
" Ladies and Gentlemen of the Congress thank you. We are experiencing trying times here with the Economic situation worsening and the domestic unrest in New Orleans reaching new heights we face a tough task here. The American Union is and will remain our top adversary, but to brand them terrorists its... its outrageous. The AU is not a haven for extremism and I can tell you that we cooperate to combat terrorism but their petty hostile attitude towards the Confederacy must end, there will come a time where an American nation must assert its dominance over the other. And when that time comes we will prevail victorious. Therefore I approve of the Department of War and Defense's plan to defend our northern borders and have set aside a plan should we see the opportunity to go on the offense available to us. The best defense is offense!"
The Congress clapped vigorously.
" Yes, we must not live in constant fear of when the American Union will launch its grand war of reunification, no. We must stand one another, shoulder to shoulder, and tell the Unionists that we are not going to allow them to step on our necks and strip away our liberties that our fallen brethren sacrificed their lives for. We must hold the ideals and principles of the Constitution of 1900 true to this day. We will fight, Blood and Steel, to the last man. May God Bless you all and may God Bless the Confederacy."
The entire Congress again stood up in a stand and ovation applause. Vice President Vicente Ramirez rushed over to the President and shook his hand. Richards also shook the hand of the Secretary General and then the Secretary of War and Secretary of Defense's hand. Richards waved at the Congress and then looked at his watch, 10:23. He had a meeting with his Cabinet and Chiefs of Staff in 7 minutes. The Congress sat back down and went back to bickering awaiting the briefing of options and final vote.

by **Caltarania** » Fri Mar 14, 2014 12:11 pm

Mexica Triple Alliance|Ēxcān Tlahtōlōyān

Inoma Tacizque.

Tenochtitlan, Mexica Triple Alliance

Cihuacoatl Izel sat in the Cuauhchique, amongst the other Tlatoani, listening to Tlatoque Yāōtl - the Leader of the Pixeque (Literally, "Guardians of Tradition") party. Yāōtl - as his name quite rightly suggested - was a notorious warmonger. He tried time and time again to convince the Cuauhchique to go to war over petty squabbles. Now, however, there was genuine reason for war. Izel himself had - with support of the Cuauhchique and the Otontin - condemned the recent drone strikes in Costa Rica, blaming them on the New Catalan government. Yāōtl - naturally - saw this as good as any reason for war. "...And that is why we should strike down the Spanish Invaders! Before they do the same to us! Yāōtl had finally finished his speech. Izel was rather relieved. "Thank you, Yāōtl. You never seem to amaze me with your excellent reasoning..." At that moment around three quarters of the Cuauhchique let out a small chuckle. "In all seriousness, I agree that the drone strike situation needs to be looked at. However, I remind you all that our only proof that the drone strikes were by the New Catalans is our frosty relations coupled with somewhat dodgy satellite imagery. Not exactly a reason for war. Having said that, the Americans and Confederates seem to be at each other's throats again. While we have attempted to maintain a state of neutrality, the recent drone strikes have proven that this policy is unstable and unreliable. We must interact with our northern neighbours - be it those run from San Diego or those run from Richmond, or Washington. I suggest that we - as a nation - propose a 'North American International Council', or 'NAIC' for short, in order to solve such diplomatic disputes. All those in favour, raise your Macuahuitls"

Around four fifths of the room raised their Macuahuitls - which are ancient Mexica swords, now used in the Cuauhchique as a voting tool. Izel quite rightly took this as a majority vote, and began to put his 'NAIC' plan into action. The main activity of this was sending messages to the various nations that comprised North America.

by **Vredlandia** » Fri Mar 14, 2014 12:28 pm

Rome, the Kingdom of Italy
Piazza Venezia

Thousands of Italians met at this historical place to celebrate something, that had been lived here for several years. The ban on the Partito Nazionale Fascista had been lifted and the party was immediately refounded. As they never really did anything terribly wrong, they were still pretty popular up to date. However, anti-fascist groups quickly gathered around the place. While the fascists loudly sang Gioviniezza and chanted their paroles, the police had to protect the whole place to protect them from any violence, although they didn't even want the protection.

That's why, after some hours of celebrating, several individuals started to insult and attack the police forces. Anti-fascists used this distraction to enter the place and soon chaos emerged. An officer quickly called for help from his helicopter, who viewed the place the whole time. Soon reinforcements arrived and tried to dissolve the gathering. While it was commonly known that they did not even hesitate to kill people to achieve that, they were not allowed to kill or even brutally assault anybody in Rome if they could avoid it. Instead, pepper spray and water cannons helped to strike down on the violent masses.

It was already the second fascist and non-fascist clash, which alarmed the government, but as the issue was still pretty recent, they also expected the situation to calm down in some weeks. A more urgent concern was how the Fascists represented Italy. Not only did they deny anything negative that happened during the era of Mussolini, they also wanted to reclaim the Balkans and even Lybia. The King would need to keep an eye on them, but it had been made sure that already happened well enough. After all one of the reasons they lifted the ban was to get a better overview of fascists in Italy.

by **Reddogkeno101** » Fri Mar 14, 2014 5:14 pm

Canberra, Federal Republic of Australia
President Turnbull was at a Cabinet meeting when he received the reply from the British. He was pleased that they could have fruitful relations into the future. But it was at this cabinet meeting that one thing was put on the table that concerned all cabinet members. That was that several Monarchies still existed in Europe. They could do little about Germany, but if an alliance were formed with Brittania, then perhaps they could still take out Italy. Italy controlled large portions of Southern Europe, areas in which civil unrest at this time could explode into a full blown Revolution. At this meeting, it was decided to contact the British and inform them of Australia's plans and ask them whether or not they would be willing to participate. With that, the Cabinet meeting ended.

by **Jade Confederacy** » Fri Mar 14, 2014 9:26 pm

San Jose, Costa Rica
Smoke bellowed from slum districts as riots ravaged the capital city of Costa Rica. The life of a Costa Rican is hard one. Crippling poverty, highest homicide rates in Latin America and hyperinflation to boot. Most Costa Ricans live hand to mouth and barely survive their days, fueled only by hopes of a better life in the north. Thursday’s drone strike changed all that.

Three days ago, an unidentified drone attack a convoy of travelers, killing nearly all of them. It turned out that those travelers were not drug mules as drone’s operators suspected, but illegal migrants seeking to cross into Mexicana controlled Panama, a transit hub to the north. The sight of the migrants shredded bodies, some of whom were mere children, reverberated deeply with the Costa Ricans. Like broken damn, the years of pent up anger and frustration in the Costa Rican population were released.

The riots first started in the outer slums, but by nightfall, have spread throughout San Jose and its satellite cities. The rioters, armed with clubs and machetes roamed the city, looting and killing as they held up newspaper clippings depicting the dead migrants. The Costa Rican police, and then the National Guard proved unable to stem their rage as the mob pushed into the foreign quarter. That’s when the real bloodbath began. Many of the foreigners living in the quarter were rich and could afford paramilitary guards, some of whom had access to heavy weaponry. Frightened by the mob’s bloodlust, the guards opened fire on the mob, killing hundreds. Enraged, the mob swarmed the defenders, butchering those who were unlucky enough to be caught. Then, the rioters broke into the villas and mansions, dragging out foreign nationals (mainly whites) who they blame for the attack and killed them at their door step.

By dawn, news helicopters streamed live footage of the carnage throughout the word. Thousands of dead bodies, foreigners and native alike, littered the street. The foreign quarter was toughly looted and then put to the torch. The rioters, whom number in the tens of thousands have all but taken control of the city as the Costa Rican government lost all semblance of control.

San Jose burns as the Costa Rican government loses control of their own capital city

Philadelphia, AU

President Clinton watched the footages Costa Rican riots along with the rest of his cabinet. CNN footage showed mobs, now armed with weapons looted from the military and the National Guard roaming the city. A foreign woman, by the looks a Southern European, tried to flee across the street with her children in tow, but was shot by an unknown armed man as soon as she broke cover.

“Turn that damned thing off!”

The Secretary of Commence heaved into a garbage bag as graphic images collected by AU agents in Costa Rica flashed by the screen. The President stood up and addressed one of his advisors.

“Which idiot was it that started all this?”

“w-well reports indicate that it was someone from the fourth areal battalion, but we don’t-“

“try and hang him, this amount of stupidity amounts to treason. Keep it from the media though, we don’t want any more fuel in the fire. I want three detachments of marines in San Jose by nightfall. We must evacuate all American nationals before this-“ he pointed to the images ”happens to them. Mr. Lee (Secretary of Intelligence), I also want a detachment of Seventh Bureau agents (the AU Foreign Intelligence Service) along with those marines. They are to try and stabilize the situation if possible, and if not, the Costa Rican government must be removed. See to it.”

As the men in the room filed out one by one to do their duties, the President slumped in his chair and massaged his temples. Three months into office and he already had an international incident brewing. He must handle this carefully least he give an opening for his political opponents to attack him. He turned to his desk and set about drafting a new executive order along with replies to other heads of government. Crisis or not the government must function and he had a job to do.

Official Commune of the American Union

To: RH Izel, Cihuacoatl of the Mexica Triple Alliance
We are interested and flattered by your invitation into this new organization of North American states. However, my government has a standing policy not to join any organization or council that legitimizes the rebel states of the Confederacy. If you wish for the AU to take an active part in this organization, you must retract any offer that has been extended to the CSA to also join. Until then we will like be an observer in this new council.
-May god bless you,
President Hughes Clinton of the American Union

To: Vladymir Maraschov of the United Soviet Republic
Greets from across the Pacific, we, the AU would like to establish greater trade and diplomatic ties with your government. Specifically we would like to purchase a greater share of the oil you nation produces as well as establish a new consulate in the city of Vladivostok. Stronger transpacific ties will aid our governments greatly in the coming times of economic and political instability.
-We hope to hear from your representatives soon
Richard Bennet, Secretary of State

by **Arkorrnia** » Fri Mar 14, 2014 11:52 pm

Berlin, The Greater Germanic Reich
Kaiserpfalz, Berlin
January 1st, 2014

White, clear snow fell upon Berlin, the blanket gently coating everything, as if the city came from a snow globe. Even with this, the city of Berlin was at work. Smoke arose from the chimneys of many homes, cars ran along on the autobahn, and trash collectors tidied the city from last night's celebrations. Children played in the snow, some acting like planes in the Luftwaffe, while others pretended they were members of the SS. Many people loved snow, however Kaiser Frederick despised it.

Leaning back in his leather chair, he sighed. He had work to be done, but he enjoyed resting in his chair, in front of the fireplace, reflecting on the events of the past. On events of Germany. Germany had been such a wonderful, respectful power in the olden days, but the nation's loss in both World Wars was humiliating on both accounts. Frederick had been such a massive nationalist and patriot to his home nation, that he had reenacted things from the past, such as the reintroduction of the SS, but this time as a defense service for the Kaiser. Germany had once been in the center of the spotlight, but Frederick could feel it slip away slowly but surely. He deliberated on how to fix that for a few minutes, before realizing good, steady allies would be an integral part of that plan again. He had received a letter from Italy (He made a mental note to respond to that later that day), but he would need more. Immediately coming to his head was the American Union. They had been pro-Germany for a while, but no formal alliance had been set yet. They were a strong nation, they were, but they did have their faults. It was very obvious, at least to the Kaiser, of the American intervention in Costa Rica, and all he could do was chuckle. That nation was now engulfed in riots, destroying their society. Only a powerful nation could do that and not get caught. His period of relaxation was disturbed when there was a knock at the door. Sighing, he opened his and turned his chair around, grumbling quietly under his breath. He spoke loudly, his voice echoing across the room, seemingly increasing in authority as it did.
"Come in." The door slid open, and the Kaiser's advisors all walked in, forming a line. Extending their right arm, they all shouted in unison, "Heil dem Kaiser!" Frederick nodded, and they took seats in front of him. The Kaiser rested his arm on his desk in front of them, and stared blankly. "I want updates." He gestured to Angela Brün, head of the Kaiserwehr. "What is the status on the military upgrading plan?"
Angela stood. "Your highness, the orders have been registered and they are awaiting payment." The Kaiser nodded. "Good, send it immediately. Now, for the real reason I have gathered you here. Germany, as you may know, is weakening. Fast. And that is unacceptable in my eyes. Now, the solution to that is to appear strong, stronger than ever. I received a message from the Italians regarding war games in the Alps, and I will immediately accept. Angela, prepare the Kaiserwehr. Make them, and the nation, appear strong, having recovered from our horrendous defeat in both Great Wars." Angela nodded. The Kaiser stared at her for a few seconds, with a blank expression. "Angela? May I ask why you are still here?" She immediately got up and headed for the door, saluted, and left.

Frederick stared at the other men there. "Germany not only needs to be strong militarily, but also economically. Of course, we are one of the largest economies in the world, but I believe the Reich has untapped growth. That immediately needs to be tapped. I want you to plan economic stimuli, increase growth, reduce unemployment, etc." They nodded. "Begin immediately." The group of three headed to the door, before Frederick stopped them. "Send a message to Reichschancellor Schröden to organize a group of the largest economies." They nodded and departed, shutting the large marble door behind them. Frederick approved of Schröden, one of the only Chancellors that had his approval. Not thinking he would fail him, the Kaiser leaned back in his seat and dozed off, but not before he responded to Italy's message.

by **The New Greek Republic** » Sat Mar 15, 2014 2:09 am

Moscow, United Soviet Republic
January 3rd, 2014

Vladymir Maraschov had called for an emergency meeting of the Soviet ministers, due to the recent actions around the world that have been hurting the USR's interests. Still contemplating who to invite to the summit in Moscow, Vladymir already had enough on his plate and the year had just rolled in three days ago. As the ministers came in and took their seats at the round table, Maraschov thought about the summit, he had recently been informed that the Germans would inviting the largest economies to Germany for an economic summit, this invitation included the USR, he was worried that the two summits would conflict each other. This was to worry about at a later time, as the final minister made his entrance and took his seat.

"Good afternoon gentlemen, I have called you here today to discuss the happenings around the world and how it has affected the interests of the United Soviet Republic and it's allied states. The first event, and the most important in my opinion, is the reports of a border skirmish between Chinese and Mongolian border officials." Vladymir said to his ministry. "Anybody know the details in full?" He asked throwing the paper he read from on the table and falling back into his seat.

"From my personal inquiry of the event, it is apparent that an unknown shooter fired first, Chinese border guards opened fire against the shooter, and the Mongolian border guards fired against the Chinese in response. Amid the chaos, 1 Chinese guard was wounded and the unknown shooter was as well. The shooter has since been identified as Suh Machi. He is a Mongolian nationalist who has a record of advocating independence for the Mongolian SSR. He is currently in Soviet custody." The Minister of Foreign Affairs responded.

"I see, sentence Machi to 20 years or so in prison, and send the Chinese a formal apology for the incident." Maraschov ordered. "Moving on, the recent events in Costa Rica... I find them to be quite startling, in fact, I find them damn near dreadful. An American news broadcast has shown the chaos that has stricken the nation. As a diminished power, the USR needs something to get back on the world stage, I believe coming to the assistance of the Costa Rican government is exactly what the USR needs to begin rebuilding a sphere of influence. This.. This is a golden opportunity right here." Vladymir said to his ministers in the most passionate tone he could speak in.

"I agree." The Minister of Soviet Affairs spoke up. " The recent actions in Costa Rica have caused quite a stir in the nation, as it appears, nobody is willing to come to the aid of the Costa Rican government. This is a perfect opportunity for the United Soviet Republic to become an influence globally rather than regionally." He told his colleagues.

"But you must know, the international community may look down on us horrifically if we take action in Costa Rica. You must remind yourself of all the possible outcomes; sanctions, embargoes, failed diplomacy, public outcry, war!" The Minister of Foreign Affairs exclaimed, obviously in dissent of the idea to get involved in the Costa Rican crisis. "Crisis or not, we must do what is in the best interests for our nation."

"Don't you see though? This IS in the best interests of the Soviet Republic. Tell me, what did our predecessor fail to do? Establish an influence in Latin America. If we can do this, and gain the support of the Costa Rican government in the process, we could set up a puppet state right smack dab in the heart of Latin America." Vladymir explained "All ministers in favor of Costa Rican intervention raise their hand, those opposed keep your arms down." 5 of the 8 ministers present at the meeting raised their hand. "Costa Rican intervention has been approved. This meeting is adjourned.

by **Caltarania** » Sat Mar 15, 2014 2:10 am

Mexica Triple Alliance|Ēxcān Tlahtōlōyān

Inoma Tacizque.

San José, Costa Rica

The city of San José burned - due to the drone strikes supposedly carried out by New Catalans. The Cuauhchique had voted to intervene, in order to restore order in the form of a new government - a democratic one, with a transition government lead by a Mestizo named 'Enrique Victor'. The Mestizo were a people of mixed European and Native decent; favourable for both the Mexica and the surrounding white nations. In order to carry out this transition of government, the Cuauhchique had voted on sending in the two of the three Jaguar Warrior regiments - the Triple Alliance's special forces. They would be coupled with two Teotls to provide air support. The Jaguar Warriors would be transported by a large number of Chinooks. The objective of the Jaguar Warriors would be to capture two points; the National Congress building and the San José International Airport. After these buildings were secured, the Triple Alliance could place Enrique as the interim President, and send more support via the airport - if necessary.

by **Glasgia** » Sat Mar 15, 2014 2:40 am

Rijeka Sava, Bijeljina, Distrikt Brčko, Balkanskih Narodna Republika
Byzantine Border

"Two on patrol today, Vodnik." The guard lowered his binoculars in one hand, his other resting on the butt of his rifle. Over the river lay two men, soldiers of the proud Byzantine Empire. They walked with the gait of emperors, yet fought with the weapons of any other and lived oppressed by the boundaries from their mental form of ideological superiority. It was a symptom that plagued the Capitalists, or at least their middle classes spoilt by the riches stolen from the workers and exaggerated by the propaganda of the ruling classes. Noticing he had caught the eye of his opposite number, the guard pushed his gun to one side and spat - Eyes rising fiercely to meet the bastard.

The Sava was just one of the many natural and ethnic barriers that divided the two nations, one forged from ideology and revolution - The other from shining gold and shining knights. Over five hundred miles, the border ran under constant patrol from soldiers of various races and politics but the two factions would split such fighters without any need for ignition. Hakim, a Bosniak, knew his allegiance from birth and such patriotism had carried him to the frontier where he now held the eyes of his enemy. The Byzantine turned away and he was only forced to avoid pursuance by the hand of his officer.

"Let's not start a war today Hakim, alright Redov?" Hakim took a firm grip of his gun and looked instead to the bridge which they guarded. His squad of five were spread out across the checkpoint, their barrier not expensive but sufficient for the purpose. As a small car, likely German in design and Balkan in manufacture, made its journey he moved into its path. Gun trained on the driver, Hakim walked towards the door - The window being wound down as the default action of a regular commuter.

"Pasoš, comrade." The driver swiftly produced a Balkan passport. Noting the Turkish birthplace and Greek name, Hakim ignored the man's likely dual nationality and reluctantly handed back his papers.

"You're ok comrade, have a good day."

Trg Svetog Marka, Zagreb, Balkanskih Narodna Republika
Balkanskih Sobor

"When the Sava bursts its banks, and the four horsemen ride forwards, then you shall regret your choices!" Milanović looked over to the speaker of the house for help, but the speaker was evidently enjoying their comrade's ramblings. With the recent speed of reform in the country, the ultra-conservative Crnogorska Partija Pravoslavlja, the Montenegrin Party of Orthodox Christianity, had made much ground in rural Montenegro but remained as a purely local party with a single seat only in the Sabor. It was that Predstavnik Ljudi, their only People's Representative, that now engaged in his fiery sermon. Though some of the more open Christians in the Sabor frowned at the laughter, it was this feeling of ridicule that engaged his speech. Though many of the rural areas did not share the same revolutionary fervour as their urban counterparts, the country was still largely secular and almost all rejected such apocalyptic prophesies - Even many of those who opposed gay marriage on their own religious grounds.

Luckily, the CPP PL soon finished his speech and Milanović breathed a sigh of relief. He took to the centre of the Sabor, to some applause from his party but even some of his own allies restrained their encouragement. The issue he was to speak on divided the party immensely and he had to use his time in the centre stage to win all over.

"Comrades, I'm sure you all enjoyed that speech from some of our more... More strongly opinionated Orthodox brothers. However, I feel that perhaps we should better speak on some more likely matters, those that press us today rather than in our, apparently doomed, future.

Perhaps these views of doom are of course realistic though. There is a threat of escalation in the Gulf of Mexico, as imperialist forces recently launched a drone strike in Costa Rican territory - Killing a group of unarmed migrants. For this action I must condemn the forces of the Capitalism and imperialism, obsessed with their own influence as to the point of littering the ground with the corpses of children. Despite the brutalities of the attack, it is then the following events that now catch my attention. San Jose has been launched into revolution, the Costa Rican people taking their lives into their own hands. They were butchered indiscriminately by the foreigners occupying their own capital.

It was in similar flames that our great nation was borne, born from the fire of our people against imperialists. It is clear that both the American Union and the Mexica now seek to establish their own puppets in the area. I once again condemn the former, but now I may extend that condemnation to the latter. This cannot be tolerated. We must stand by the Costa Rican people, for their revolution and our own."

by **Bolovia** » Sat Mar 15, 2014 9:42 am

National Presidency, Richmond, CSA
Richards listened to all his Secretaries of the various departments briefing him on all sorts of issues regarding the CSA. He again looked at his watch 7:49 AM. He placed his finger back near his brow and leaned his head on his entire arm. Richards thought about the multitude of things, but he most thought of was the AU's hostility and the State of Arabia's trouble making. He knew that the Arabians would want those oil wells back, but we were the ones who developed them, we won the drilling rights back in '06 he thought. Richards wanted to send an extra 60,000 troops to reinforce positions. He had 2 aircraft carriers, 15 Battleships, and tons of missile cruisers in the Persian Gulf. Kuwait and Qatar were his main drilling areas. He got out of his daze and focused on his Secretaries again. The Secretary of Defense was speaking,
"... around these areas is where we see the highest concentration of AU forces. I already instructed Gen. Williams to place his army near the border of Pennsylvania, we have a total of 45,000 troops as a "meager border-force" we have 170,000 troops stationed behind that army ready for any action. Should the AU invade we have our Airborne Operatives assessed on their mission, if the AU declares war or vice-versa they will be paradropped over Philadelphia. Our Maritime Naval forces will be mobilized and will await further orders." Secretary of Defense John Smith sat down, Secretary of War Jerry Knox then took his turn.
" Mr.President, should war on the mainland ensue the Knox plan will call for a rapid crossing of the AU-CSA border. Our main objective would be to take-out Pennsylvania, the heart of the AU governement. Our Marines will land in Chesapeake Bay, by that time our Airborne Operatives should have ceased the AU capitol. We will mobilize the Reserves of every branch of the military and the National Guard. We will immediately place our economy back into wartime production. I assure you Mr.President that should this war between brothers commence we will prevail victorious." The Secretary of Foreign Affairs spoke next.
"Mr.President, the situation in Arabia seems to be deteriorating rapidly. I unfortunately see a 2nd Arabian war brewing and this time the Arabs are more prepared. We essentially own Kuwait and Qatar, I believe by placing the Confederate flag over the Arabian flag was not such a good idea. We implied that we conquered them, so now in order to alleviate the situation I ask that we place more troops in the region, maybe take some from the reserve and I will assemble a delegaion to fly to Mecca and if not diplomatically reach common ground it will surely buy us some time." The Secretary of War jumped right back up,
" Oh, sir, I almost forgot that section of the Knox plan, yes we are ready to take 180,000 men from the reserve pool and send them to our bases in Kuwait integrating them with the already 90,000 men stationed there. I advise we also dispatch another fleet, a flotilla perhaps. In the event of war with the State of Arabia as you said before the best defense is offense but this time sir should we win a second time we will annex Kuwait and Qatar." The Secretary of Energy jumped in on this,
" Yes that is a good idea Mr.President, this would add so much to our oil and natural gas reserves we wouldn't have to worry about another gas crisis for years maybe even the next century. Thin of all the revenue we can make."
Richards looked down and folded his hands together. He had alot to think about but one thing was for sure he wanted to ratify the Knox plan. Richards stood up, " Gentlemen, I have listened to all of your input and I agree with the Knox plan. I will bring it to the attention of Congress tonight." The entire room cheered and the Secretary of War shook everyones hand. Behind Richards was TV which showed the New Orlean student protests turning into a full blown riot. Richards immediately went over to his Secretary of Domestic Security and whispered in his ear," Send in the Security Forces." A grin slowly came over the Secretary's face. Richards went back to his office and prepared for tonight.

by **Toradora** » Sat Mar 15, 2014 10:36 am

January 5, 2014

General Secretary Theodore "Teddy" Delgado looked up from his screen, his weary eyes bloodshot. He'd read briefs on the astonishingly-quickly escalated tensions in Costa Rica and around the world; and had worked closely with his Minister of State and Foreign Affairs to draft responses to those concerned.

He was however hopeful that the purchase of three guided missile cruisers would add to the growing defensive forces of New Catalonia, although they were at least a decade away from having true blue-water power projection capability that the great powers did. That was okay, he thought - we aren't in this to bite off more than we could chew.

His thoughts drifted to the history of the nation, and the unique mindset that drives NC culture. Having been shellshocked from a collapsing conquista, Spanish survivors and refugees from the colonial era all fled to the American SW. There, a perpetual "circle-the-wagons" ethos took hold - and all dreams of adventurism abroad stopped cold. If it were not for the strength of the Anglo-Texian / local - Tejano character, and the successes they had establishing a prosperous state with free and open trade with the Mexica peoples down south, the continental SW would likely be in Confederate or AU hands.

Teddy snapped back to the present, and hit the key on his final work of the day:

Code: Select all: -----FLASH TRAFFIC----- FROM SDHQ TO CINGCULF CC CINCPAC, CINCNAM 1728 ZULU 01052014 GENSEC HAS ORDERED ALL NAVAL FORCES IN GULF OF MEXICA TO DEFENSIVE ALERT. THE FOLLOWING ASSETS ARE TO STEAM TO LIMIT OF NEW CATA. EEZ: NCS San Diego NCS Manuel Quezon NCS Francisco Pizarro NCS Mirabeau Lamar DO NOT ENGAGE EXTRA-NATIONAL FORCES UNLESS FIRED UPON. DO NOT PERSECUTE ANY INITIATED COMBAT TO LETHAL CONCLUSION. PERFORM ALL AVAIL HUMANITARIAN / RESCUE OPTIONS. CLEAR TO ENGAGE PIRATE FORCES.

ooc:
(San Diego, Manuel Quezon, Francisco Pizarro
Mirabeau Lamar)

by **The New Lowlands** » Sat Mar 15, 2014 11:48 am

Palais de l'Élysée, Paris, France
Franco-Iberian Border
January 1st, 2014
Mahmoud Pingeot, President of the Third French Republic, reclined in his chair as he closely examined the glass of champagne in his hand; the crystal pinged softly from an earlier impact, the few drops of wine still within warming gradually. The fifty-three year old French-Arab had survived as the head of state of Europe's foremost nuclear power for another year, despite the best efforts of a few Tunisian separatists, and on one occasion a racist from Marseilles. Unwilling to waste the last few drops, Mahmoud took the final sip, letting the cool liquid run across his tongue. He smiled faintly through a short black beard as the Minister of State, Jean Duplessis, entered the room and sat down before him.

"Bonne Année, monsieur Président," the younger statesman began. "I trust your celebrations weren't too extreme?"

Pingeot smiled softly. "A small get-together with the family, nothing more. What affairs require my attention this morning, Jean?"

Duplessis spread the manila folders across the green leather surface of Pingeot's desk. "Three items in particular, monsieur Président. The crisis in America, a Memorandum of Understanding with Canada, and the suggested trade agreement with Germany."

Pingeot nodded, picking up one of the folders and rising to the light of the window to read it. The sun's evening light shone brightly into the President's study, reflecting brightly off of the row of medals Pingeot bore on his chest; one marking him as the grand master of the Légion d'Honneur, beside a National Defence Medal and a Croix de Guerre from his service in the Army.

"We're really doing this?" Pingeot asked incredulously, looking up. "Trying to become friends with les Allemands? Ludicrous. You know they brought back the SS?"

"One doesn't choose one's neighbors, monsieur Président," Duplessis replied. "Besides, Germany's one of the few democracies in Europe. Kind of."

"I don't like it," Pingeot responded, sighing as he put the folder down.

"Well, you did become President on a conservative platform," Duplessis responded, picking up the folder and glancing through it himself before putting it back. "I'll let you get to it, sir."

by **Baja California y Sonora** » Sat Mar 15, 2014 12:17 pm

Confederación del Perú

As the sun made its way above the large capital city, Boliviarana, the president and his chamber were well awake and already passing resolutions. The topic of the day had been nuclear technology and increasing the use of green energy, having already nuclear reactors, the government in Boliviarana had been hoping to expand it's use by 2020 and as well hoping to increase the use of green technology to lower the dependency on fossil fuels. Anyhow a lengthy argument had been made before a resolution was passed, two new rectors were approved by 2016 and the energy budget would see an annual increase of 1.7%, starting by the end of this year. After the meeting, turning on his television, the president caught on to the updates on the Costa Rican Crisis, the drone strikes and revolts had incapacitated the Costa Rican government and now with San Jose falling, President de Santos, could see the hungry hyenes that were Mexica, The American Union, New Catlonia and the CSA, pick the carcass that would be left of Costa Rica, if nothing was to be done about it. The Peruvian Confederation, was an actual peace keeper, minus it's past interventions to keep it's neighbors loyal, the government only sought for the best of it's people. But unfortunately the Confederation, could do nothing but locate it's nationals and offer the people of Costa Rica an asylum from all the chaos in their home.

Official Communique of the Peru Confederation

Seeing how dreadful the situation is in Costa Rica. We the government and people of Peru, open our arms and borders to the displaced people of Costa Rica. We as well will be sending a convoy to locate and extract Peruvian nationals from Costa Rica, till then we have our thoughts for the people of Costa Rica.

Signed
-Manuel de Santos, President of the Peru Confederation.

by **Jade Confederacy** » Sat Mar 15, 2014 4:00 pm

Louisville, AU
Lt. General Rubin cupper his ears as a volley of missile screeched across the forecast sky. Damn, but those things were loud. He would need to talk to the military engineers to tell them to do something about the noise, least it betrayed the location of the missile batteries in the midst of battle. The missiles were supposed to be an upgrade of the Mk. XVI medium range missiles, designed to be faster and harder to intercept. The top brass seem to like them as they already ordered thousands of these things for deployment. He and others watched a screen until moments later that same volley of rockets slammed into a concrete target, turning it into ruble. The target was over 80 km away. Well, at least they were accurate.

The AU had thousands of missile batteries, both medium and long ranged, with just under 4/5 of them pointed towards the CSA. Those missiles, coupled with the annual Union military exercises, have always been a major point of conflict between the two nations. The Union was technically in a state of war with the Confederates, but outside of the seasonal saber rattling, which had become almost like tradition, the two stayed clear of outright conflict. With modern technology, actual war (god forbid), would prove supremely devastating.

The Lt. General tore his gaze away from smoking rubble that used to be a six meter thick reinforced concrete target and exited the command tent. Outside, Union troops were setting up equipment and had begun preparations for the 26th annual military exercises. This time, the theme was cyber warfare and the integration of new technology in combat. As if men needed more tools to kill other men.

San Jose
Half a dozen UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters flew across the smoke filled skyline of San Jose. In the absence of government law enforcement, anarchy had taken hold of the city, with territory partitioned between various gangs and armed factions. The helicopters circled the city for several minutes before finding their target, the American Embassy in San Jose and landed. The embassy was a mess, diplomats were burning documents in case they fell to the wrong hands and the security guards were barely able to hold back the mob of desperate people at the gates. One of the guards fired into the into the air to get the mob’s attention

“American citizens only! Those with American passports come to the front, the rest of you stay back!”

“Are you just going to leave us here?!” a voice in the crowd shouted “those savages already killed my cousin! To leave us here would be the same as murder!” The crowd shouted in agreement and made an effort to push pass the gate, only stopping when the guards level their guns at them.

A squad of marines exited the helicopters as they landed in the Embassy’s vast lawn. A ragged diplomat, clearly overwhelmed by the situation, ran to greet them.

“Thank the lord you’re here colonel! The situation in San Jose was much worse than anticipated, the government still retains control of the outer metropolitan area, but the outlying suburbs and slums have gone to the dogs. We must get the citizens out before the mobs turn their attention to us. They’ve already sacked the Belgian consulate, we must-colonel?”

But the colonel was barely listening to the stammering diplomat. His gaze had shifted west, to where sporadic gunfire could be heard. “It appears that it is too late for proper evacuations. Get the people at the gate inside the compound’s walls. “
“but colonel-“
“Do it!”

The diplomat yapped and hurried to embassy chief of security. Seconds later the gates were opened and the crowd flooded into the compound. The helicopters were already loading on the first wave of evacuees. They will be flown towards the Gulf of Nicoya, where the Union aircraft carrier AUS Ohio waited. There will be no second wave though, if the embassy fell.
The gunfire in the west became more and more intense as shouts and screams echoed across the now deserted streets. The mob was coming. Louder and louder the echoes became, carrying forth voices of uncontrolled rage. The diplomat swallowed.

Then, like a wave of flesh, the mob turned the street and came into view. Dear god there must be thousands of them! They seemed to be mostly armed with clubs and machetes, but several branded Kalashnikovs and was that a RPG? Even with reinforcement from the marines, the security personnel, whom numbered less than a hundred would be overwhelmed by the crowd as other had been. They needed to do something fast.

“Sargent Lawrence! Get D-squad and set up defensive perimeters, I want two rows of marines in the front and masks for everyone! We’re going to have to use it.”

The marines quickly set out to do as the colonel command, acting upon years of training and drills. As the last person donned their gas masks, the first row of marines fired their smoke grenades. The smoke grenades soared on top of the advancing mob and blew up several meters above the ground. Pale yellow gas drifted down from the exploded grenades, enveloping the front of the crowd. At first nothing seemed to happen, but then people in the front began to drop to the ground, chocking and reaching. Others began to cry out in pain as the mob discovered they weren’t hit with simple tear gas. It was mustard gas. The AU was one of the few major military powers that did not ratify the Convention on Chemical Weapons and the Union military was notorious for their use of chemical warfare along with a penchant for carpet bombing.
As the cries of pain turned to screams of agony, panic spread throughout the crowd like wildfire.

“ gas! gas! el diablo americano está utilizando el gas! corran por sus vidas!” someone in the crowd scream and just like that, the crowd dispersed, stampeding away from the pale yellow cloud that lies between them and the embassy. Several bodies lay on the street in the wake of the gas attack.

The colonel didn’t so much bat an eye as he ordered those in the street that had not been completely killed by the gas shot and their corpses burned. Everyone knew that the Union used chemical weapons, but it’s best not to leave evidence of their usage around as it tends to agitate some in the international community. He then turned his attention to the rest of the people in the embassy,

“Why are those choppers still on the ground?! We need everyone out of this city by nightfall!” He knew that the fear instilled by the gas would not last long and the mob will be back. By then, he and his charge would be hopefully out of this god forsaken cesspool of a city.

Elsewhere in San Jose
A man in a black suite lounged on a couch, slowly sipping wine as he looked through the window at the superb view the hill top villa offered of the city. Well, it would have been superb, if smoke had not cover a good third of the skyline. By that window, the owner of the villa looked on, an aged look on his face.

“You know, I grew up in one of those slums” He spoke with fluent English “I begged, whored, and sold myself in those slums, scrapping by day to day and slowly climbing up the ladder of life. I climbed and climbed until I broke free of that slum and into the light. Funny, I thought that slum was hell back then, but now, seeing my old home burn, it brings a strange sense of sorrow.”

The man in black said nothing at first, but continued to sip his wine. Finally, he spoke up
“You can put a stop to this General Batista. The people love you and you have control of over half of the armed forces. You will also have the full support of the American government and all the resources that it entails. This is a ripe opportunity, seize the day general”

“You want me to overthrow my own government? To usurp the presidency from my very own leader?” the general, who tore his gaze from the window replied

“What leader? You President ran for the hills as soon as the guns began firing. He was just a figurehead anyway, everyone in the Costa Rican national assembly is bought by one cartel or the other. You can finally return power to the citizens.”
The general did not seem convinced.

“Your military will continue to receive military aid from the Union, the President has guarantees it. You can also count on American diplomatic protection.”

“And what about the air? General Regalado (leader of the Costa Rican Air Force) and I are not on the best of term. It is likely he and the air force will side against me.” The general has returned to gazing at the city.
The man in black set down his glass of wine, now empty.

“We can arrange for air support”

The general continued to look out the window in silence. The he spoke
“President Batista does have a nice ring to it now that I think about it”

The man in black smiled. He knew he had the general. He stood up.
“Think about it, my superiors will expect a reply by next week in the latest. Until then, best of luck President Batista”

As the man in black exited the fortified hill top villa and climbed onto a helicopter. In the sunlight, one could see a flash on his breast pocket. A pin depicting an eagle and a shield with a star in the center, a pin of the Seventh Bureau of the American Union.

by **The Miaphysite Church of Coptic Archism** » Sat Mar 15, 2014 8:15 pm

Trafalgar Square, London, Worker's Commonwealth of Britannia

General Secretary Fleming stood quietly as all around him, government officials and civilians chatted away. A couple of BSRC techies were quietly talking among themselves under the commotion in the square, and when one met Andrew's gaze, he smiled and nodded to him. Andrew returned the favor, before turning to watch some government lackey or other who's name escaped him, approach the podium on the hastily set up stage. The man leaned in towards the microphone and the crowd that had assembled slowly quietened down, all the cameras focusing on him. "Thank you all for coming to this surprise announcement ceremony, I would like to introduce our General Secretary, Comrade Andrew Fleming!" A quick round of applauds as Fleming stood and took the man's place on the stage.

He took a deep breath, looking out at over ten thousand bright eyed followers. Who knows how many million more were watching on television screens at home. Fleming hated public speaking. "Hello, comrades. People of Britannia, I want to ask you a question. What is this government here for?" Mild confusion was abound in the crowd. "I'll ask again, what is the purpose of this government? The answer is simple, comrades. We exist to serve you, the people. We are not here to gain influence, power, wealth, or any other desire that plagues the world. This government's sole purpose is to lead the Britannic people, through good times and bad, to prosperity, peace and happiness. We are here to make this nation great, and it's people greater!" He spoke smoothly, reaching a crescendo. The speech wasn't going half bad.

"I'm happy to announce the next in a long line of decisive actions in this regard. The Workers' Party of Britannia, and the Workers' Council, are glad to begin the construction of a modern, efficient bullet-train line to run through the entirety of the nation, for the betterment of the people and the economy. Alongside this, the government will be increasing subsidies into nuclear power, computing and space technology. Britannia is a modern nation, and we will remain at the forefront of global technology. Finally, we are very happy to announce an overhaul on the education system to better teach the future generations of the nation. Information packs on how the educational transition will be provided for schools to hand out to students, and more information on how this will affect your children's schooling can be found online at the education directorate's website."

People seemed over all pretty happy with the announcement, but Andrew grinned and continued. Time to unveil the best part. "I mentioned that our government is here for the nation's prosperity, but I also mentioned that we exist to make Britannia great. Which is why I am very pleased to announce the upcoming testing of the Eos Space Shuttle, a reusable low to mid Earth orbit space craft that will render all of our current spacecraft obsolete! The test is planned to take place in three days time, and will be broadcast on international television." The excitement in the many faces made Andrew smile as he leaned into the microphone one last time and said "That is all, glory to Britannia." A huge round of applauds went up as Andrews left the stage.

by **Animarnia** » Sat Mar 15, 2014 8:24 pm

Tokyo, Japan. The Imperial Palace,
The Imperial Palace was a grand structure an edifice to simpler times, that had stood for centuries, surrounded by a cavernous moat which some said was bottomless, this in actuality was doubtful but if one were to exhume deep enough one would undoubtedly find the bodies of many men who were ‘unfortunate’ enough to suffer a fatal accident. The Palace itself a large castle like structure from the Pre-Shoganate, built from granite, stone and marble, a towering symbol of Imperial Rule linked to the capital city via stone bridges across the precipice and idyllic water,with two rows of Imperial guard, each stood on the flanks of the bridge and at the bridges exit along with the palace itself. Dressed in Ceremonial attire the guard were more a formality than a functional military force, with the actual security of the Royal Family entrusted to Imperial Security, still no less than a battalion of Imperial Guard were present on the palace grounds and its surrounding structures. The Emperor Sat in his garden, chairing an informal meeting with his Privy Council and the First Minister of the Assembly, The Empire was an unusual in that it wasn't formally democratic, the emperor retained absolute power however, he alone could not rule without the support of the General Assembly, which was an elected body and likewise the Assembly could not legislate without the support of the Emperor, or the Non-elected upper Assembly and Emperors themselves were elected for life terms once one died so it was a mixed back, a pseudo democracy with hints of an absolute Constitutional monarchy.

"The Situation in Costa Rica Alarms me", Emperor Yorshiro spoke, this tone soft and concerned but reverberated with the sound of an older man used to being in charge.

"As does we all. However Costa Rica is very far away Sir", the First Minister replied, "We are already in the process of Evacuating our Embassy Staff, Unfortunately there is little else we can realistically do. There are flash points all over the world right now, the Italians have gone mad, and there is the more pressing issues of a Chinese-Russian War. IT seems the border guards keep shooting at each other. Also the CSA and the AU are never far away from boiling over into out right war, Of Course there is the Caliphate issue"

"Indeed", The Emperor Agreed. "Imperial Security Assure me that there is no value in Costa Rica?"

"Not Currently Sir", A Younger man in a fine suit answered, "However I think a statement perhaps might be in order, to keep all sides...honest"

"Walk Softly, and Carry a Large Stick as the Americans would say", The Emperor nodded in agreement. "Speaking of Sticks, I am to understand our new Carrier will be commissioned soon, ahead of Schedule?"

"Yes Sir, the Izumo will be ready for our War Games", Admiral Kawano nodded in agreement. "she's a fine ship", She was indeed, the Izumo was a newest Aircraft carrier and one capable of launching fighter aircraft, an accomplishment not gone unnoticed as the process of of building up a Carrier Borne Jet force using a modified variant of the Mitsubishi F-2 and training pilots and support staff had taken several years. As she was finished ahead of schedule, she would be able to operate some Thirty CTOL Fighters and Fourteen Helicopters.

"Very Well then. We shall Conduct the military exercises in accordance with my birthday it will give the populace a moral boost", The Emperor nodded; "Now what of the Confederate State?"

"Sir As I said, the CSA and AU are only ever just under boiling point, our Satellites have picked up increased activity on the borders but nothing to indicate a conflict is imminent however the recent bombing has left some tensions the situation in New Orleans is also very bad with little economic development", The First Minister replied with a nod.

"Perhaps we can aid in that?"

"I can send an Envoy, we can see what they say"

"It Is with Deep Concern that the Empire of Japan looks on at the Catastrophic events in Costa Rica, where by images of the most grievous kind continue to stream to our screens even here in Japan, Safe in our homes far away from the horrors and it is with deep concern that we express our unity with the victims of family's caught up in the events unfolding in the capital. to that end. the Japanese Government is issuing a Travel advisory to all citizens of the Empire to not travel to the region of Costa Rica unless absolutely required and do so at their own risk. We also advise any citizens currently in Costa Rica to leave immediately or as soon as possible, if you are unable to leave or contact Consular services the Advice of the Japanese Government is to maintain as low profile as you can until the current crisis is resolve. Stay Safe Citizens.

To President Richardson
From: Emperor Yoshiro
Greetings to You Esteemed President, in light of recent events we the people of Japan extend to you a formal offer of Economic Assistance. it is with great trepidation that we do this given current events and historical tensions between the CSA and the AU, however we believe that our two nations can work together now and in the future to achieve Victory over the scourge that is Godless Communism.

Warm Regards
His Imperial Highness and Emperor of Japan

by **La Republica De Filipinas** » Sat Mar 15, 2014 10:39 pm

Manila, Philippine Mainland

The sun rose over the nation's beloved capital of Manila. It was not only one of the largest and richest cities in Asia, but it was also one of the most pleasant cities to be in. Despite being a large metropolis with many tall buildings which command the landscape, trees were a common sight in the city's wide sidewalks and parks. It also hosted many international businesses and organizations, for its strategic location meant that men and goods can be transported either by land or sea to and from the world's major economies like Koryomanju and Japan.

The city folk were very proud of what they and their ancestors had accomplished in the large metropolis. Even the country's founding fathers would have never thought that the city would have reached this far. Thus, men and women of the city, and overall the country, had vowed to protect all they have accomplished through their 3-year service in the Philippine Defense Force.

Every 21st of March was the graduation day of the many draftees of the military. The best performers during the draft would be given the chance to march in the annual parade with all those who have decided to stay in the PDF.

Finally at 10:00AM, after final preparations were finished, the Philippine President Anselmo Castellano gave a speech regarding Philippine nationalism. "...If we are to continue being Southeast Asia's tip of the spear, we must continue on to not submit to the whims of those who consider themselves more powerful than us." He said with pride in his heart. Most Filipino presidents promoted the policy of "Southeast Asia for Southeast Asians.", calling for the sovereignty of Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam, which would explain his utter hatred for the nation's northern neighbor throughout his speech.

After the speech, pompous military marching songs accompanied the brave men of the military, and local equipment produced and designed by the Philippines. When the event was over, everyone present was astounded by the organization and discipline of the PDF.

Presidential Palace

(TBD)

by **The New Greek Republic** » Sun Mar 16, 2014 4:46 pm

Moscow, United Soviet Republic
January 12th, 2014

Premier Soviet, Vladymir Maraschov, watched the television screens of the SPC forces landing in Costa Rica at the Soviet Embassy in San Jose, he had given them specific orders in their deployment. They been ordered to secure schools, hospitals, and government offices and buildings in the San Jose city limits. In the process, they were ordered to restore peace in San Jose, and restore authority back to the government of Costa Rica.

A camera had been attached to each helmet of every SPC peacekeeper, this is what enabled the Premeir to be able to watch them in their operation. He watched as the Soviet peacekeepers armed themselves with two automatic rifles each, 1 armed with rubber bullets and the other with actual bullets. He watched them prepare for armed conflicts with the populace by getting smoke grenades, and putting on bullet proof vests before heading out of the embassy and into the fire.

The SPC forces loaded on three different Chinook helicoptors, and headed off into the square in San Jose, the focal point of all the violence in Costa Rica. The Premier was watching them intently as they traveled the short journey, analyzing how they prepared for their mission. The Chinooks reached their destination and hovered of the square of San Jose, which was packed with radical rioters causing violence in the streets. The SPC peacekeepers droped pepper spray grenades down into the massive crowd, causing the people to scatter like cockroaches caught in the light.

Vladymir heard one member yell out "gas masks!" and watched as they all put on gas masks and zip lined down into the city square. Opening fire on the rioters with rubber bullets, the Costa Rican national guard helped in arresting the rioters who fell down, or became slow. The SPC forces split up into three different teams and headed out into the rest of the city along with the Costa Rican national guard to apprehend any violent protesters who were caught by the SPC.

The SPC teams traveled through the city, securing the schools and hospitals within San Jose, allowing them to become sanctuaries for the troubled population of the Costa Rica capital. The SPC were able were able to secure the perimeter of the National Congress building, but were unable to actually secure it from the inside as the rioters ran to the inside of the building and locked themselves in. The Premier watched and ordered for them to not raid the building, rather stay at bay from the outside and guard the perimeter, after all, they couldn't stay in forever.

All was apparently well in San Jose, now emergency services were able to deploy their services, ambulances and firefighters were frantically moving through the city to help those in need and prevent damages caused by the infernos that were ignited by the violent protesters.

The Premier heard on last phrase from the peacekeeping force. "Mr. Maraschov, Operation Rebirth is nearly completed. Mission success is projected to be accomplished within the week."

by **Marsisian** » Sun Mar 16, 2014 5:21 pm

Constantinople, Neo-Byzantine Empire, January 12

In the daylight of the afternoon, people were walking, mainly to stores, or to grocery shops to buy food for their family. Cars were also used, but not as much as other countries in the region. Racism against people from the United Soviet Republic was rampant, and people said things like "DIRTY RED!" and "RUSSKIE!" Byzantine civilians forced USR citizens out of many major cities, burning their homes, and even killing a few. Even the Emperor (secretly) supported the fights. A mob of civilians gathered in front of the USR embassy in Constantinople, and shouted insults at the Soviet diplomats inside. "Get out of there, communist bastards!" Concerned people who were looking at the scene informed the local police of the events at the USR embassy. Riot units arrived, and quickly stood in front of the doors of the embassy. The possible leader of the group then spoke. "Fellow Byzantines, why do you do this to us? We are saving the country from these dirty disgraces!" 'No, you aren't! You're dividing the damn country because of your racism against people from the USR! Now stand down!" "In your dreams." The radicals were massacred by Byzantine police forces, and the survivors were imprisoned. Soon after, clashes occurred between members of the Constantinople Metropolitan Police Department and extreme anti-Soviet radicals mainly in the Embassy area, but in other areas of the city, such as the Royal Palace. Fires occurred, ruining homes and buildings, many people were injured or killed, it was a truly dark day for the Byzantine Empire's capital, Constantinople, in all of its years of existence.

More will be added if needed

2014: The Modern World (IC)

2014: The Modern World (IC)

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